Not many words can descride this absolutely magnificent masterpiece! If you were watching the anime, i'm sure that you've allways wondered how the Cross shaped scar on Kenshin's left cheek was made. The answer is actually given in this romantic story, which has to do with Kenshin's past and destiny. One of the two scars was made by a man's hatred and the other one by a woman's love. Doubtless, this is a Top class drama, the fantastic, personal story of a pacifist Samurai ,who fights to create a better future for the people of Japan and to bring a new era, the Meiji era, with a lot of intrigue, passion, historical and political details of this belligerent period, will for revenge and forgiveness.

The plot unfolds gradually,something which keeps you interested till the end of the OVA. The characters have a cruel and also a very sensitive side, something which makes them more interesting and gives us a whole image of thei inner World and thoughts. The anime's design was less close to a manga and anime version of kenshin and closer to a Real Human. Also the music of this OVA fits so well to the action and dramatic scenes.

What else can be said about this excellent OVA? Just watch it people, so that you'll understand what i am talking about:) It's without a doubt not a waste of time, and i am sure that you don't want to miss this! (show less)

This is undoubtedly the best anime OVA here. It has drama,passion, angst, expression, anticipation and when you are done with it, it will leave an ever lasting impression. Do go through the series first. Its the classic of the classics. The truth behind those scars. The making of the swordsman and user of the reverse blade. We get to understand the weight Kenshin has been carrying through out his life.

Seijiro Hiko, Kenshin's master makes his legendary presence felt again. He is probably one of the most powerful characters ever drawn in anime kingdom. I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did. (show less)

This OVA series is hands down a classic. One of the best, if not the best I have ever seen. I believe you have to watch the anime series first and then these OVAs, you will see such a great difference. This OVA series has a beautiful sound track, great action scenes (bloody as well, if you dont mind that), and the animation is no less. This is a very dark, dramatic/tragic series in comparison to the actual anime series. I am a big fan of samurai anime, so that's always a plus. Based on Meiji Era, so that was really interesting as well. Essentially, words enough can't describe how great this series was to me, I loved every minute of it. (show less)

Some might say that you could watch the Tsuiokuhen OVA before the original series... I strongly disagree! To fully appreciate the OVA (which in my opinion is one of the best prequels made) you must see the original Rurouni Kenshin series first... not just to follow the timing of events in order, but to fully understand the characters, and to understand the true sadness that changes him. I've seen this many years ago, but decided to watch them again... it definitely reminds me why I love anime to begin with. Everything was beautifully done: the animation, the music, the action, the emotions... it was all there! If you’re a fan of Rurouni Kenshin then you don't need me to convince you what I’m talking about... but if you haven't seen any of the series then you're sadly missing out... (show less)